From School Library Journal
Grade 3-7. Lynne Reid Banks' lively, imaginative adventure (Doubleday, 1991) comes alive thanks to her splendid narration. Daikon, the main character, is a heroine of the '90s, even though she lives in a faraway time. At 14 she is independent, compassionate and courageous, and will not be deterred. She has three goals in life?to visit the faraway mountain, to meet a gargoyle, and to marry a prince. She accomplishes the first two and, through the process, matures enough to realize that there are princes in all walks of life, not just in castles. Banks has created a lively cast of :characters, including trolls imprisoned as gargoyles, and an imaginative setting. The twists and turns of the plot keep listeners engaged throughout the story. Banks makes every character come alive, capturing the nuances of their natures, their pettiness, jealousy and fears through the voices she creates as well as the actions she relates. Her narration is fast-paced and convincing. This is a story that the entire family will enjoy.
Edith Ching, St. Albans School, Washington, DCCopyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Fifteen-year-old Dakin finds adventure, mystery and challenges when she decides to be the first to explore the magical Farthest-Away Mountain. Banks smoothly portrays all the characters with seamless transitions between each part. Many of the voices are of fantasy creatures. She gives the enchanted gargoyles sad, haunting wails, mimicking the real sounds that would occur if wind traveled through their spouts. Her menacing troll thunders his loud, frightening words, tempered by Banks's touch of humor and a cockney accent. For Dakin's voice, she adds a sweet innocence and strong determination that reflects the brave heroine's true soul. P.A.J. An AudioFile Earphones Award winner. (c)AudioFile, Portland, Maine
